The Adams County Young Dems will be holding elections for the 2018 Board on Wednesday, April 11. Below are the letters of intent for the 5 positions.

Chair: Julia Marvin

Dear Adams County Young Dems,

My name is Julia Marvin and I am running to be re-elected as the chair of the Adams County Young Dems.

The Young Dems have a long history as a chapter in Adams County, and when became the chair last year, the chapter wasn’t very active. My main goals were to get more people involved, make it action-oriented and fun, collaborate more, and to build up our digital communications.

I’m proud to say that the 2017 board accomplished all of these things, becoming an example that other chapters are trying to emulate.

In the past year:

We held 7 events, all with a focus on activism and information

We partnered with other Young Dems chapters to host events

We volunteered with the county party for outreach at festivals

We promoted opportunities for volunteering for campaigns

Our event attendance averaged 30-50 people (a 1,000% gain)

We tripled our email subscriber list

We added over 200 new Facebook followers

We established a website at adamscountyyoungdems.com, and our blog series about Young Dems running for local offices in 2017 remains our most popular content to date.

This year, with the chapter more established and fundamentals needed to run a successful chapter in place, I look forward the Young Dems to provide a forum for likeminded people to meet and talk about politics and government in a way that is informative, actionable and entertaining.

If re-elected my goals for this year are:

Get Young Democrats informed, excited and activated for the 2018 elections through voter outreach and education.

Support causes and issues that we believe in through awareness and volunteering

Get Democratic candidates into office all the way down the ballot by volunteering on campaigns, raising money, hosting panels and sharing information

Support our allies and partner organizations by showing up to marches, protests and events.

Stay informed and keep pressure on our elected officials who are pushing policies we don’t agree with and voice our support for the ones we do.

It has been an honor to be a part of this organization, and I hope that you will give me the opportunity to chair the Young Dems again.

Sincerely, Julia Marvin

Vice Chair: Dan Pinkston

Dear Adams County Young Dems,

My name is Dan Pinkston and I'm running for reelection as the vice chair of the Adams County Young Dems.

The Young Dems have a long history as a chapter in Adams County, and when became the chair last year, the chapter wasn’t very active. My main goals were to get more people involved, make it action-oriented and fun, collaborate more, and to build up our digital communications.

I’m proud to say that the 2017 board accomplished all of these things, becoming an example that other chapters are trying to emulate.

In the past year:

We held 7 events, all with a focus on activism and information

We partnered with other Young Dems chapters to host events

We volunteered with the county party for outreach at festivals

We promoted opportunities for volunteering for campaigns

Our event attendance averaged 30-50 people (a 1,000% gain)

We tripled our email subscriber list

We added over 200 new Facebook followers

We established a website at adamscountyyoungdems.com, and our blog series about Young Dems running for local offices in 2017 remains our most popular content to date.

This year, with the chapter more established and fundamentals needed to run a successful chapter in place, I look forward the Young Dems to provide a forum for likeminded people to meet and talk about politics and government in a way that is informative, actionable and entertaining.

If re-elected my goals for this year are:

Get Young Democrats informed, excited and activated for the 2018 elections through voter outreach and education.

Support causes and issues that we believe in through awareness and volunteering

Get Democratic candidates into office all the way down the ballot by volunteering on campaigns, raising money, hosting panels and sharing information

Support our allies and partner organizations by showing up to marches, protests and events.

Stay informed and keep pressure on our elected officials who are pushing policies we don’t agree with and voice our support for the ones we do.

It has been an honor to be a part of this organization, and I hope that you will give me the opportunity to vice chair the Young Dems again.

Best, Dan Pinkston

At-Large: Veronica Broslawik

My Fellow Americans Slash Adams County Young Democrats -

My name is Veronica Broslawik and I am writing to inform you of my intent to run for an at-large position on the board of the Adams County Young Democrats. I have lived in Adams County for my entire life and I am finally ready to take an active part in the political community in the place I call home.

Although my formal experience in politics is limited (beyond participation in caucuses and county assemblies), I have seen the power of the individual in the local government. I am eager to learn and provide my skills to service of the Adams County Young Democrats. I am a Clinical Microbiologist with a Masters Degree in Public Health and I have a strong passion for healthcare and science, as well as formal education in social media advocacy and public outreach. I am the manager of a large hospital microbiology laboratory responsible for the daily operations and oversight of a multimillion dollar budget and over thirty direct employees. I also have experience in planning events.

I am excited to have the opportunity to use my skills to the benefit of our community, and appreciate the opportunity to run for an at-large board member position for the adams county young Democrats. Thank you.

At-Large: Eric Chacon II

Dear Adams County Young Democrats:I am writing to notify any concerned parties of my intent to retain my seat on theleadership team of the Adams County Young Democrats. After serving this past year, I'm moreexcited than ever to work towards progressive goals and help elect democrats to office.Especially in an ever important midterm year.I’ve lived in Adams County for more than 20 years, and have consistently voted Democratsince turning 18. I’m currently a grocery clerk and union steward for a King Soopers. My workwith the United Food and Commercial Workers Union Local 7 has provided me many valuableexperiences, including working through a collective bargaining agreement, and many laboreducation and activism opportunities. In 2016, I caucused for Senator Bernie Sanders, andworked phones and canvassing through both of President Obama’s election campaigns. Thisyear I am proud to start work as my precinct’s PCP and serve as a delegate at the stateassembly this weekend.I believe these experiences have, and will continue to help the Adams Coumty Young Demsgrow. The work over the past year has been successful beyond my expectations, withfundraisers and voter outreach and information sharing. I've enjoyed watching so many newpeople come to our events, and take away something new. Whether a question about thesystem or actual time with one of the many office holders and candidates who have sharedtheir time and energy promoting and attending our events. I look forward to continuing thiswork this year and in the future.Thank you for your consideration.Eric Chacon II

At-Large: Luna Ly

My name is Luna Ly and I am a graduate from the University of Colorado Boulder with aBachelor’s degree in Integrative Physiology and Certificate in Public Health. I was born andraised in Adams County, having attended Tennyson Elementary School and graduated fromWestminster High School. Currently, I am an Advocacy Fellow at Healthier Colorado, anonpartisan health advocacy and policy nonprofit. Since the 2016 election results, I’ve beenmore inspired to get involved and to invoke positive change at the policy level, specifically toadvance healthier policies that break down barriers to affordable and quality health care. Youthhave always been the backbone of every movement, and I know that Adams County YoungDemocrats can drive young voters to the polling stations, and get more youth from marginalizedcommunities involved in politics.

At-Large: Justin Martinez

I am submitting my intent to run for one of the at-large positions for the Adams County Young Dems. I would like to a member of the ACYD officers because I would like to gain more experience in the world of political organization. Even though I am newcomer to political activism, I believe I have a lot to offer for the ACYD. I am a very good web developer and am already involved in a re-fresh of the Adams County Democrats web page. I would be able to provide help with web design and maintenance, robo-call programming, social media, and any other type of electronic communication. One of my goals for all of my democratic volunteer work is integrate social demographic data into the democratic message. I believe the socio-economic data is a powerful and under-utilized tool that can help us win elections.

I would like to see the ACYD grow significantly grow its membership over the next year. Adams County is full of young democrats who are looking for a way to be heard, and I believe the ACYD is a great way to help young democrats have a louder voice. I am already active with the Adams County Democratic Latino Initiative, where I was elected as the organization's secretary earlier this year. I am excited to start recruiting new members to ACYD! Most of all my main motivation is to ELECT DEMOCRATS!

At-Large: Jessica Troy

Hello,

I am writing to give my letter of intent to run for an at large position with the Adams County Young Democrats. Over the past year I have been proud to serve in the at large position and help out with organizing events. We have accomplished a great deal and really grown the Young Dems over the course of the year, and I think we can continue the momentum.

Thank you,

Jessica Troy

At-Large: Kayla Tuite

My name is Kayla Tuite and I would like to submit the following letter to declare my intent to run for an At Large position with the Adams County Young Dems.

First, I would like to say that I am grateful for the opportunity to have had a hand in growing this chapter over the past year. We have come far. From informational events and candidate meet and greets, to picnics and anti-Nazi fundraisers, I would be honored to have the opportunity to continue engaging young democrats across our great county in local politics. If we are to make a difference on a large scale, we must first start at home, in our own backyards.

As a young mother of four in a multiracial family, an employee, and a student, I understand firsthand the issues affecting other young democrats in our community. It is my mission to leverage my passion for advocating for others, my advanced organization skills, and my desire to create change in my community to rally others and truly make a difference in the cities in which we live and work. I am excited to continue our outreach and get even more young democrats educated and enthusiastic about turning our blue wave into a blue tsunami this November.

1. What do the positions entail?Detailed descriptions are available on our website. Because our chapter has 3 at-large members, the positions can be whatever you want to make them! There's a ton of flexibility that you can take advantage of to work on projects you're passionate and utilize your skills to make the chapter even better!

2. What kind of time commitment is it?The board meets monthly to discuss upcoming events and projects. Members are expected to participate in the planning meetings, as well as be at as many of the chapter events as possible. Depending on what other projects you want to work on, the at-large members spend about 4-6 hours per month. The time commitment for the chair and vice-chair is a little bit higher--about 5-10 hours a month.

3. What do I put in a letter of intent?There's no rules, but you'll probably want to include some information about yourself, why you're running, and what you'd like to see the Young Dems accomplish in the next year.

3. Are there a bunch of other people running? If you've already got people, then maybe I don't need to. Everyone has unique skills and perspectives to offer, so regardless of how many people are running, you should too. We don't believe in turning people away, so if we have more people that there are positions, we'll figure out a way to get everyone involved.

4. What if I don't want to run, but I still want to get involved?That's awesome! Come to the Happy Hour! In addition to electing board members, we'll be talking about the goals for the chapter for the rest of the year and getting people connected to opportunities and candidates they're interested in.

Elections for the Adams County Young Dems Board of Directors for 2018 are coming up! Interested in running? Here's what you need to know:

In order to vote or run for a Director position, you must be a member of the Adams County Young Democrats. Any person who is over the age of 15 and under the age of 36, registered as a Democrat in Adams County, and who has attended at least one Young Dems event in the past year is a member of the Adams Young Democrats. The election happy hour DOES count toward membership - so if you attend in person and meet all other membership qualifications, you may still vote or run in this election.

TO SUBMIT FOR THE BALLOT, PLEASE EMAIL A LETTER OF INTENT BY April 9 AT 9 p.m. to: adamscountyyoungdems@gmail.com

THE BOARD POSITIONS:ChairVice-Chair3 At-Large Members

Each board member plays a special role in making sure that the Young Dems are successful.

Chair:-Take general charge and supervision of ACYD operations-Coordinate Board meetings and preside over Board meetings and ACYD events-Serve as the primary public representative of ACYD-Oversee event planning-Appoint vacancies of other offices, and execute such other duties as are necessary and proper for the office-Maintain ACYD communications

Vice-Chair:-The Vice Chair shall assist the Chair with his or her duties, serve as Chair Pro Tempore at Board meetings-Conduct community outreach and coordinate with other organizations-Execute other duties as are necessary and proper to further the goals and mission of ACYDIn the event of a vacancy in the office of the Chair the Vice Chair shall become Chair.

At-Large Board Members:-Promote ACYD programs and events to encourage attendance-Raise funds for ACYD- Actively engage with other organizations to promote ACYD-Oversee special projects as needed-New member recruitment and retention-Work to increase voter registration and engagement

If there is anything good to come of a Trump presidency, it's that it's encouraged a surge of young people to run for offices like state legislatures, city councils and more. Adams County is no exception, and we are thrilled so many Young Dems are stepping up to run to represent us.

Leading up to the municipal elections on Nov. 7, we'll be profiling Young Dems running for city council seats in Westminster, Thornton, Northglenn and Aurora, giving you a chance to learn more about these remarkable people, their beliefs and their candidate platform.

CRYSTAL MURILLO, CANDIDATE FOR AURORA CITY COUNCIL, WARD 1

What made you decide you wanted to run?

I am running for office because I believe that some in our community are being left behind and deserve a fair shot at success. I grew up in Aurora and I care deeply about the people who make up our diverse community. Like most immigrants, my grandparents came to the U.S. in search of a better life. Their journey landed them in Aurora, Colorado, where they’ve been for the past 20 years. I am a product my family’s American Dream; I am the first in my family to graduate high school and college. I want to take the necessary steps to ensure everyone has the opportunity to fulfill their dreams just like I did, whether one has lived in Aurora 50, 20 or 2 years. My way of giving back to this wonderful community is to make sure everyone has a voice and representation in our community.

How have your previous experiences, professionally and personally, made you the right candidate for this office?

I believe in investing in and empowering the people in our community and I believe representation matters. As a native of Aurora, having grown up in this community, I am connected to the community. The people are struggling are not “others” to me - they ARE me. The makeup of our current city council is not reflective of the community it serves and I seek to change that as a candidate and support others that hope to represent our community equitably.

I am a Democrat with a business and legislative background, which gives me the political and financial perspective needed to represent the people of Ward 1 and find practical solutions to our problems.

After I graduated from the University of Denver with a Bachelors of Science and Business Administration, I immediately got to work serving my community. My experiences working with Speaker Duran in the State House and serving on both the State Board for Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention and the Citizen Advisory Committee on Housing and Community Development for the City of Aurora taught me that there ARE solutions to our community’s problems. We can have a FAIR and AFFORDABLE Aurora that works for all - you just have to want it and be in the room making the decisions.

Has anything about your experience as a candidate surprised you?

Yes, this is my first time running for public office and there have been many new lessons learned from this experience. What has surprised me the most is how personal this experience has been. Even though my goal is to engage and empower others in my community, there is such a strong personal connection because I am from this community.

One issue I have had to overcome is not being fully bilingual and being between my Mexican-American culture and language. As a single mom raising two kids and working multiple jobs, my mom had to make tough decisions about our upbringing. She couldn’t really teach us more than what I was learning and my english-only school. Though I have always been insecure about that part of my identity and have always aspired to be fully bilingual, running for office has made that more of a pressing matter. People assume I speak Spanish fluently and not being fully bilingual has not only challenged my sense of identity but at times others have questioned it as well. Additionally, there is large Latino population in Ward 1 and in order to best connect with them I feel it is necessary to meet them where they are at and speak Spanish. I want to be the best advocate for my community and at times that means overcoming my own insecurities to be able to do the best job.

What are the most pressing issues facing your city and what will you do to address them?

Affordable housing, responsible growth, and a connected, robust public transit system are issues my campaign is focusing on. As I canvass the neighborhoods in Ward 1, I find that these are issues that community members care about as well. Though there are other issues I consider important, I know that I am an advocate for more than myself and it’s my job to meet the evolving needs of my ward. However, I also recognize the intersectionality of climate change as it relates to all of those issues and more. Though I am not as deeply versed in the realm of conservation, I know I have benefitted from the spoils of the natural resources in our state, and it is in-turn my responsibility to be a steward of it.

Crystal and campaign volunteers

Running for office can be rewarding, but difficult. What keeps you going?

My family and Selena.

What’s your favorite thing about where you live?

Vibrant resiliency and diversity.

Who do you look up to politically and why?

Dolores Huerta because she was an unapologetic advocate for her community and believed that so strongly that she still continues to organize today even though she’s 87 years old.

What was your first paid job?

Selling CutCo knives during summer break in high school.

What’s your favorite TV show that you tell people you watch, and what’s your favorite TV show that you watch in secret?

Everyone should watch House of Cards. I plan on binge watching it after the election is over. I don’t really have time for anything else.

What songs do you listen to for getting hyped up?

Selena. <3

How can Young Dems help in your race?

Knock doors! Make phone calls! We can win this thing if we can people who normally don’t vote in municipal elections to VOTE! Visit facebook.com/murilloforaurora to check out our upcoming events. Or email our campaign at MurilloForAurora@gmail.com to get plugged in!

If there is anything good to come of a Trump presidency, it's that it's encouraged a surge of young people to run for offices like state legislatures, city councils and more. Adams County is no exception, and we are thrilled so many Young Dems are stepping up to run to represent us.

Leading up to the municipal elections on Nov. 7, we'll be profiling Young Dems running for city council seats in Westminster, Thornton, Northglenn and Aurora, giving you a chance to learn more about these remarkable people, their beliefs and their candidate platform.

Suzie Brundage, Candidate for Thornton City Council, Ward 4

What made you decide you wanted to run?

My childhood was not easy. Home wasn’t always safe, and we were in and out of poverty. The help I received from my community helped me persevere, and when it became time to choose a career, I chose a career that focused on helping others: social work. As a social worker, I have dedicated my life to helping others on a micro, one-on-one basis. I currently work in hospice and I spend my days supporting individuals with terminal illnesses. But after the last election, I realized that it was up to me to be the change I wish to see in the world. I decided it was time to use my skills and expertise to serve the community on a more macro level: through elected office.

How have your previous experiences, professionally and personally, made you the right candidate for this office?

My professional experiences as a social worker have fostered a deep understanding of how governmental policies affect individuals and families. As a social worker, I am also a trained communicator. I have the skills needed to meet people where they are, really hear what they need, and partner with them to achieve their goals. Through listening, I have been able to learn different points of view, as well as learn more about the needs of the community. Further, social workers are also trained collaborators, which will be an asset when working with other City Councilmembers, stakeholders, and governmental entities.

I also believe my personal experiences as a long-time resident of Thornton make me the right candidate. Thornton is my home. I grew up here, and I’ve chosen to raise my family here. I know the community intimately. Because of my long history with the community, I know it’s strengths, as well as the areas where there are room for improvement, and I will use this knowledge the strengthen our community

Has anything about your experience as a candidate surprised you?

I have been overwhelmed and humbled by the support of the community. Family, long-time friends, and new friends have all been so supportive. From donating to door-knocking to just lending an ear when I need to talk to someone. We have an amazing community!

What are the most pressing issues facing your city and what will you do to address them?

Thornton is currently the sixth largest city in Colorado, and it’s still growing! The need for sustainable development is one of the most common concerns I hear at the doors. We have a real opportunity to build a city that works for everyone, and growth must be smart and balanced. This means ensuring that all residents have access to secure and affordable housing, a variety of employment options within the city, multiple types of economic development, outdoor spaces, and mobility options.

Running for office can be rewarding, but difficult. What keeps you going?

My daughter is my biggest motivator. After the last election, I realized it was up to me to create the kind of world that I believe she deserves. It’s also up to me to be a role model for her about what it means to be a strong, smart woman. When I’m tired, I think of her and why I’m running for office.

What’s your favorite thing about where you live?

Thornton is my home! I grew up here, and when it came time to plant my roots as an adult, I chose Thornton. To me, there is something so beautiful about raising my daughter in the same place I grew up. I love so many things about Thornton: the outdoor spaces, the access to amenities, and especially the sense of community. I am who I am because the people in this community took an interest in my well-being when I was a child, and then went out of their way to support me.

Who do you look up to politically and why?

In 2008, I was incredibly motivated and moved by the candidacy and election of Barack Obama. He has this genuine ability to connect with others, and he inspired me to work towards my ideals. I also absolutely love Elizabeth Warren. She is an intelligent, well-spoken, and strong woman! Finally, Bernie Sanders’ focus on economic inequality really resonates with me.

What was your first paid job?

I started babysitting at the age of 12, and throughout high school I worked in various daycares. Even from a young age, I enjoyed being around people and helping others.

What’s your favorite TV show that you tell people you watch, and what’s your favorite TV show that you watch in secret?

I love Parks and Rec, and I’m not afraid to tell people! It’s clever and SO funny! It’s my favorite TV show ever. My guilty pleasure is probably This is Us. I’m not guilty about watching it. But I’m somewhat embarrassed by the fact that I ugly cry every week when I watch it.

What songs do you listen to for getting hyped up?

Depends on the day, honestly. Lately, I want to belt out country music with the windows down. I have some great memories of singing the Dixie Chicks with my sister at 16 years old.

How can Young Dems help in your race?

I need help spreading the word about my candidacy! Young Dems can help me knock doors and make phone calls to voters in Ward 4.

What else should voters know about you?

I have a passion for helping others and bettering my community, and I am ready to work hard on city council to make sure we have a strong Thornton that works for everyone.

If there is anything good to come of a Trump presidency, it's that it's encouraged a surge of young people to run for offices like state legislatures, city councils and more. Adams County is no exception, and we are thrilled so many Young Dems are stepping up to run to represent us.

Leading up to the municipal elections on Nov. 7, we'll be profiling Young Dems running for city council seats in Westminster, Thornton, Northglenn and Aurora, giving you a chance to learn more about these remarkable people, their beliefs and their candidate platform.

Julie Mullica, Candidate for Northglenn City Council, Ward 3

What made you decide you wanted to run?

It was a combination of things. A year ago, I never would have thought I would run for political office but with the November 2016 election, and some disturbing positions our local city council members were taking, I just had enough. I knew that if I wanted things to change, I needed to take a more active role in making that happen.

How have your previous experiences, professionally and personally, made you the right candidate for this office?

I have been fortunate to have a rewarding career as an Infection Preventionist, preventing healthcare-associated infections in hospitalized patients. I work with diverse teams of people (e.g., physicians, nurses, facilities and custodial staff) to implement best practices and improve the quality of care for our patients. Those skills have allowed me to coordinate various perspectives and goals to achieve measurable outcomes.

In addition, I’ve been an invested member of my community. I’ve attended countless city events and city council meetings. I have educated myself about transit in suburban areas through completing the Citizens Academy Transit Alliance program. I also currently serve on the citizen’s advisory board providing input into the redevelopment of the new recreation center, senior center and theatre.

As a professional, as a mom and as an invested member of our community, I am ready to hit the ground running as the next Northglenn City Councilwoman for Ward 3. I am ready to work with our community, our regional leaders, our residents and our staff to make Northglenn Shine!

Has anything about your experience as a candidate surprised you?

Yes! The bullying has been terrible from some of the other candidates, especially one mayoral candidate in particular. I’m just shocked that adults can be so disrespectful.

What are the most pressing issues facing your city and what will you do to address them?

The redevelopment of our public buildings in Northglenn are one of our most pressing issues. I believe that my neighbors deserve a seat at the table and a strong voice when it comes to the decisions that are being made in our city. The decisions we are making today will lay the foundation for the next generation of Northglenn. It’s important that we have a strong leader who knows our community and will advocate for all of our residents.

Running for office can be rewarding, but difficult. What keeps you going?

My husband, kids and friends. This campaign has been really difficult but they keep me going and remind me why I’m running.

What’s your favorite thing about where you live?

I love Northglenn’s small town feel! I love the diversity I see when I take my daughter to preschool or take the kids to the park. We have a beautiful little city and I want to do my part in building on our sense of community.

Who do you look up to politically and why?

There are so many individuals that inspire me it’s hard to narrow the list. I have to say more recently Barak Obama and Bernie Sanders have allowed me to believe that that change American needs can be achieved.

What was your first paid job?

Boston Market in Westminster

What’s your favorite TV show that you tell people you watch, and what’s your favorite TV show that you watch in secret?

My favorite TV show is Game of Thrones! I don’t like to admit how much I like Nightly News. I’m a huge Lester Holt fan (embarrassed emoji)!

What songs do you listen to for getting hyped up?

Lately Taylor Swift’s “Shake if off” seems to be my theme song!

How can Young Dems help in your race?

Help me knock doors, make phone calls, write post cards or donate!

What else should voters know about you?

My husband and I bought our first home in Northglenn 7 years ago and two kids later, we still love living in this beautiful city. I have a genuine interest to serve my community and provide strong leadership for my neighbors on city council.

If there is anything good to come of a Trump presidency, it's that it's encouraged a surge of young people to run for offices like state legislatures, city councils and more. Adams County is no exception, and we are thrilled so many Young Dems are stepping up to run to represent us.

Leading up to the municipal elections on Nov. 7, we'll be profiling Young Dems running for city council seats in Westminster, Thornton, Northglenn and Aurora, giving you a chance to learn more about these remarkable people, their beliefs and their candidate platform.

Seth "Isaiah" Thomas, Candidate for Thornton City Council, Ward 2

What made you decide you wanted to run?

I decided to run after realizing that I could be the change that I wished to seek on our council. Just as I witnessed in our Adams 12 BOE, I also saw our city council needed just as much help, and it requires just as much involvement. We seek a leader that is passionate about issues that matter to our community. I want to be somebody who helps champion these causes, somebody who makes the difference in the lives of the people that live in this community.

How have your previous experiences, professionally and personally, made you the right candidate for this office?

I ran for the Adams 12 Board of Education. I have proven that I can win a local election in Adams County. Part of my district includes the area that I previously ran for. Many local elected officials have decided to take me under their wing and show me the path and how the political world works.

Has anything about your experience as a candidate surprised you?

What doesn't surprise me, for instance, is how many people don't realize that there is an election this November. What is surprising is how people do not understand that local elections can be decided on thin margin votes.

What are the most pressing issues facing your city and what will you do to address them?

I believe that the most pressing issues that matter most to our citizens are things like speeding, fireworks, traffic along Colorado Boulevard, marijuana, tax increases, the way tax dollars are spent, Neighborhood Services, bulk trash pickup, crime, affordable housing, economic development, and growth within our city.

Running for office can be rewarding, but difficult. What keeps you going?

I think the thing that keeps me going is the fact that I know I can make positive change and that I can help create positive public policy. I realize I can make real-life decisions that will impact people's lives that will make a difference for them.

What’s your favorite thing about where you live?

The community, the diversity, the fact that we are the sixth largest city in the state of Colorado and rapidly growing; and that we refuse to let anything stop us. We do not let anything get in our way. I like the fact that we are a large city, but have small tight-knit communities that stick together and look out for one another within our city. I like that we as a community are here to support each other.

Who do you look up to politically and why?

One of my greatest mentors is the person who currently holds the seat: Val Vigil. I first encountered the Vigil family when I was in 8th grade and went to Washington DC with his daughter. That's where politics started to run in my veins.

What was your first paid job?

My first paid job was with Highland Hills recreational District at Water World.

What’s your favorite TV show that you tell people you watch, and what’s your favorite TV show that you watch in secret?

My favorite TV show that I tell people I watch is House of Cards I don't believe I have a favorite TV show that I watch in secret.

What songs do you listen to for getting hyped up?

A remix version of Tracy Chapman Fast Car, Anything hip hop or pop.

How can Young Dems help in your race?

There are three main ways you can help me. A: donate money, campaigns are expensive and I always need donations. B: I need walkers, people to walk my district and help me knock on doors we have less than two months before the election. C: if you live in my district, vote for me.

What else should voters know about you?

I have called Thornton home for nearly 25 years. Thornton is the city I grew up in, as I watched our bedroom community grow into the thriving sixth largest city that it is today. Most of my family still lives within the city limits today. I became involved with our local government as a young adult, because I had the desire to be an inspirational leader for my community. As a long-term resident of the area, I felt it was my duty to have my voice heard. I started to attend City Council meetings and spoke frequently with our Mayor and City Council members. I gained relationships between local elected officials and myself, working on numerous issues facing my community. I want to promote and champion the needs and desires of my constitutes. I want every resident in Thornton to take advantage of the unlimited opportunities that our City has to offer. I believe it is my turn to give back to the community who has given me so much.

If there is anything good to come of a Trump presidency, it's that it's encouraged a surge of young people to run for offices like state legislatures, city councils and more. Adams County is no exception, and we are thrilled so many Young Dems are stepping up to run to represent us.

Leading up to the municipal elections on Nov. 7, we'll be profiling Young Dems running for city council seats in Westminster, Thornton, Northglenn and Aurora, giving you a chance to learn more about these remarkable people, their beliefs and their candidate platform.

Danielle Henry, Candidate for Northglenn City Council, Ward 2

What made you decide you wanted to run?

I have worked on state and federal policies for a long time. I was tired that true changes takes such a long time. I decided that I wanted to get involved on the local level because there is a lot we can do in Northglenn NOW to make real change.

How have your previous experiences, professionally and personally, made you the right candidate for this office?

As the daughter of a single mother I learned early on how important a strong community is. When I returned from college I was determined to give back. As a community organizer I helped nurses lobby for whistle blower protection. As a union organizer I advocate for workers who didn’t have a voice. Then in 2009 as our community was hit by the foreclosure crisis I became a District advocate for Congressman Jared Polis. As the District Advocate I organized housing fairs to help my neighbors renegotiate their loans with their banks and save their homes, I developed job hunter boot camps to help my neighbors who were looking for work for the first time in decades navigate the new job market, and finally I worked with local employers to connect them to qualified employees.

Has anything about your experience as a candidate surprised you?

The friendships I have made along the way. No matter the outcome of this election I have met so many people who have made me a better person.

What are the most pressing issues facing your city and what will you do to address them?

Like the rest of the metro area, Northglenn is seeing an increase in traffic and cost of housing. These issues are bigger than Northglenn so I would like to work the communities that surround Northglenn to address the larger problems. Northglenn is also unique because we are completely locked in. The only opportunities we have to bring change into our city are with redevelopment. The decisions the next city council makes will change Northglenn for a generation.

Running for office can be rewarding, but difficult. What keeps you going?

The people who I meet at the door that are excited that someone shares their vision for the city. Many residents have given up on our city and they are excited to see someone who wants to make a difference. Their excitement and hope for the city’s future keeps me energized. I don’t want to let them down.

What’s your favorite thing about where you live?

I think Northglenn is a hidden treasure. The homes are well built with large yards, we have wonderful parks and trails in every corner of our city. We also have a variety of small businesses that are unique and add to the character of the city. People are coming to Northglenn to start their families and their small businesses and you can see why.

Who do you look up to politically and why?

I want to avoid stating the obvious (my mother, Eva Henry, or my boss, Jared Polis) so I will say Frances Perkins. She was labor secretary for FDR and she drafted social security and was critical in the U.S. adopting a minimum wage and unemployment insurance. She had some really innovative policy ideas that helped working families. Her ability to build coalitions was critical to the passage of the New Deal.

What was your first paid job?

When I was 12 I had a baby sitting job where I was paid two dollars an hour for 50 hours a week (our neighbor who was a single mom). I used the money to help pay the phone bill.

What’s your favorite TV show that you tell people you watch, and what’s your favorite TV show that you watch in secret?

I haven’t watched much TV in the last 2 years, but I just finished The Leftovers and have managed to keep up with Walking Dead. Secretly, I almost always have some reality show on the in the back ground as I work in the evenings.

What songs do you listen to for getting hyped up?

Do NPR or Audio books count? (I know I’m not normal)

How can Young Dems help in your race?

Knock on doors with me! Canvassing is the best way to make a real difference in a campaign. You are actually delivering votes with every conversation.

What else should voters know about you?

I know my neighbors are busy. Some of them are working multiple jobs and raising families. So I won’t wait for you to come to me. When something impacts your neighborhood I will knock on your door to hear from you. I won’t wait for you stand up during a public hearing.

Since this whole Affordable Care Act repeal effort started in the spring, it's been one battle after another to fight it. We thought it was done in May. We thought it was REALLY done in July.

It's like we were at the part of the horror movie, when our heroes feel like they've finally succeeded in killing the monster/vampire/serial killer. The music swells and they all hug triumphantly. You, however, look at your watch and realize there's a good 45 minutes left before the end, which means nothing good can come of it. Just as the characters have settled in to their normal lives again, the monster usually comes back, worse than ever, catches everyone off guard, casually murders some people and the whole thing starts again.

Maybe, instead of a clown, IT is taking on the form of Republicans hellbent on ripping away healthcare from millions of people?

That's where we are with the Cassidy-Graham bill. Somehow, they've made it worse and they're not even going to bother to wait for a full CBO score. (Because of time constraints, it won't tell us how it will impact coverage and how many people will be left uninsured. You know, little things.)

We've got less than a week to convince our Senators that this is a bad bill and they need to vote no.

I know you're tired of fighting this same fight over and over and over again. I am too. But if we don't, the consequences are going to be dire for the millions and millions of people who will be without healthcare. Call Senator Gardner. Call your friends who live in states with undecided senators and pester them to make calls.

Let's kill this thing once and for all.

Get it? Kill Bill?--Like, Kill the Bill? Although I guess at this point it would be Volume 3. Nevermind. Just call your Senators.

If there is anything good to come of a Trump presidency, it's that it's encouraged a surge of young people to run for offices like state legislatures, city councils and more. Adams County is no exception, and we are thrilled so many Young Dems are stepping up to run to represent us.

Leading up to the municipal elections on Nov. 7, we'll be profiling Young Dems running for city council seats in Westminster, Thornton, Northglenn and Aurora, giving you a chance to learn more about these remarkable people, their beliefs and their candidate platform.

Jackson Dreiling, Candidate for Westminster City Council

What made you decide you wanted to run?

Seeing the lack of affordability across the metro area. Westminster has been working to address this and we have to keep the work moving forward.

How have your previous experiences, professionally and personally, made you the right candidate for this office?

I am dedicated to serve. My life has been about service, from focusing my career in the non-profit sector, to helping community boards, school district committees, advocating for my neighbors and coaching youth sports. Westminster City Council is the next best way for me to serve.

Has anything about your experience as a candidate surprised you?

How it is hard to think politically as a candidate. You just want to give all of your energy and focus to who/what is in front of you; so, that makes strategy more difficult than I would have thought.

What are the most pressing issues facing your city and what will you do to address them?

Growth/development vs. Inclusivity. Westminster, like all of the metro area, has been growing rapidly and will continue to grow.

The question is how do we grow in a way that makes sense? Sustainability. In order to build a true community that keeps Westminster a wonderful place to live for future generations, we have to be open and welcoming, in order to build our tax base, so that we can pay for infrastructure improvements necessary to accommodate growth.

But, we have to be intentional with our efforts, or Westminster will be come an exclusive place to live. As we accommodate growth, we need to produce a diverse spectrum of housing, especially with smaller amounts of raw, developable land available. This promotes community by living together with people from all walks of life, income levels, faiths, nationalities-true community. We can be both an economically strong city and an inclusive city.

Running for office can be rewarding, but difficult. What keeps you going?

Looking into my sons’ eyes and committing to working for their future.

What’s your favorite thing about where you live?

The people. Their stories, their hopes, dreams and cares inspire me.

Who do you look up to politically and why?

My first political reading was “Promises to Keep” by Robert F. Kennedy. I have always come back to these readings when feeling confused, astray, or stuck. His idealism is something that will always help guide my steps.

What was your first paid job?

Working for my Dad at his packaging and shipping business.

What’s your favorite TV show that you tell people you watch, and what’s your favorite TV show that you watch in secret?

West Wing all day. But, the one I am a closet fan of is This is Us. I love it because I get to watch it with my wife.

What songs do you listen to for getting hyped up?

Common.

How can Young Dems help in your race?

Westminster City Council is all at-large. So, I am working to reach 10,000 voters in my target universe. I need energy, enthusiasm and idealism. That is Young Dems. Any lists that you can walk, write or call, I would be grateful for.

What else should voters know about you?

My faith drives me on this campaign. I truly believe that I am working to serve my brothers and sisters; and, therefore, am advocating and fighting for the dignity of every human being.